The development of easily implemented, cost-efficient, and replaceable energy dissipation devices is increasingly emphasized to improve bridge resilience. This study introduces a novel external assembled 3U energy dissipator (EA3UED) made of high-strength steel, designed to enhance the performance of precast segmental concrete bridge piers. The EA3UED, featuring three distinct U-shaped components to provide multi-directional resistance, was evaluated through comprehensive cyclic loading tests on five different specimens to assess their failure modes and practical feasibility. Finite element analysis conducted in Abaqus further assessed parameters such as ultimate bearing capacity, energy dissipation, stiffness, and ductility to identify the optimal geometric configuration. The results indicate that the EA3UED exhibits high energy dissipation, strength, stiffness, and ductility alongside cost-effective benefits. Two primary failure modes were observed: U-shape failure and bolt fractures. The validated finite element models successfully simulated the hysteretic behavior of the EA3UED. And a parametric study based on these models examined the effects of the width of U-shape and the steel grade on the device performance. These improvements demonstrate the EA3UED’s potential for integration in future bridge pier designs, improving their resilience and performance under seismic loads.
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